The Benefit of the Doubt; a Comedy in Three Acts

by Arthur Wing Pinero

[She breaks off; they all remain silent for a time.

Mrs. Emptage.

This—this will appear in the papers! Won’t it? Won’t it? [No one replies; Sir Fletcher sinks into a chair, with a blank look.] Can’t anybody answer me? Fletcher, will this be in the papers?

Sir Fletcher Portwood.

[Confused.] The papers—! No strong-minded public man ever looks at the papers. When I have spoken in the House I never——

Justina.

[In a hard voice.] Why, of course, a dozen papers will have it. What a silly question to ask, ma!

Mrs. Emptage.

[Advancing to Mrs. Cloys.] I hope you’re quite satisfied, Harriet. You came here, after these many years, on purpose to witness this——[Mrs. Cloys rises]—to see disgrace and ruin brought on me and my family.

Mrs. Cloys.